New dietary guidelines for the US population were presented several weeks ago with a central, forceful message: prioritize real foods and restrict ultra-processed products with excess calories, sugars, sodium, and low-nutritional-quality fats. The document, developed by the US Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services, introduces clear definitions of nutritional quality, nutrient density, and sustainable eating patterns for long-term health, according to a report accessed by the Argentine News Agency (NA). From PROFENI, a group of health professionals in Argentina dedicated to the study of child nutrition, some of its members took the new publication to interpret which of those recommendations could contribute to improving the approach to nutrition in our country. The dietary guidelines of different countries are presented in various formats such as pyramids, plates, circular graphics, texts, and tables, although they share similarities in their content and approaches to what an ideal dietary pattern is. However, they show marked variations based on sociocultural contexts and traditions. For this reason, the aforementioned entity stated: 'We proposed to contribute a perspective on these guidelines always in recognition of these differences, prioritizing local idiosyncrasy, food availability, and nutritional deficits specific to the Argentine context as central aspects for a correct interpretation.' What would the priorities be? 1. This guideline marks a significant change from previous years and repositions dairy as allies to cover requirements for high-biological-value proteins, calcium, and other essential micronutrients. Reinforcing the role of dairy is key in a context where nutritional deficits persist: 8 out of 10 people do not incorporate the 3 recommended servings of dairy in Argentina, 70% of children do not meet the recommended daily calcium intake, and more than 90% do not reach the recommended intake of vitamin D. Although this situation can be reversed by incorporating foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt into the diet. 2. The recommendation is to prioritize those of better nutritional quality and consume them in appropriate amounts from early ages, as part of a varied and balanced diet: olive oil, nuts, seeds, avocado, fish, dairy, and eggs provide essential fatty acids that favor brain development, cardiovascular health, and the correct absorption of vitamins,' said Dr. Mónica Katz, a nutrition specialist and former president of the Argentine Society of Nutrition. 3. The guidelines also reinforce the importance of prioritizing protein-rich foods daily. Certain groups (older adults, people losing weight, those with sarcopenia) may require intakes of 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, from both plant and animal sources (meat, dairy, eggs, legumes, nuts, and seeds). Adequate protein intake is essential at all stages of life: it is key for a healthy, active childhood and better development opportunities throughout life. 4. Regarding fats, the guidelines recognize that butter or beef tallow can be used for cooking, although they maintain the recommendation to keep saturated fats below 10% of total caloric value, with special emphasis on limiting ultra-processed products. 'Here it is necessary to bring clarity to the people, because not all fats are equal,' experts emphasized. 5. The US document also promotes a diet that includes three daily servings of vegetables and two of fruits, similar to Argentine guidelines, which suggest five servings without distinction. 'Here, specifically, there is an opportunity to promote dietary diversity, considering the wide offer in different zones of the country and the cultural heritage of each place,' pointed out Professor Sergio Britos, director of the Center for Studies on Food Policy and Economy (CEPEA). In conclusion, PROFENI highlighted that the American guidelines are at the forefront. This new document invites us to rethink the state of local recommendations, considering that they must constitute a tool for consultation and utility for the design of public policies that contribute to improving the health of the population, in the light of current knowledge, always taking as a starting point our food culture and the real needs of the Argentine population.
